The Dawn of ‘Celluloid’
On a historic day, January 14, 1873, John Wesley Hyatt, a name synonymous with ingenuity, transformed the world of manufacturing by trademarking ‘celluloid’—an invention that would forge a path for the future of materials. Known for his dedication to experimentation, Hyatt’s creation stemmed from a need to find a synthetic alternative to a much sought-after and over-harvested natural product: ivory. Billiard balls, a popular item at that time, were traditionally crafted from this luxurious material. The innovative ‘celluloid’ not only mimicked ivory’s unique aesthetic and tactile qualities but also its production proved to be more sustainable and efficient. The material became available commercially under different names, such as ‘ivarine’ or ‘ivaleur’.
Revolutionizing the Silver Screen
At the close of the 19th century, in 1889, a groundbreaking discovery was made: the application of flexible celluloid plates as a medium for a photosensitive gelatin emulsion. This led to celluloid’s influential role in the burgeoning film industry when Thomas Edison utilized this early version for his kinetograph. The film for motion pictures, as a result, owes its existence to the flexible and durable nature of celluloid, irrevocably altering the way stories would be told and consumed worldwide.
The Analogue Marvel: The Slide Rule
Celluloid’s adaptability also made its mark in precision engineering. One notable application was in the construction of mechanical calculators by A.W. Faber, which became essential tools in computational tasks. Known for their simplicity, these devices confused many for a standard ruler. These slide rules, composed of three unassuming components—a frame, a central slide, and a runner—represented one of the earliest forms of analogue computing.
Adamantine’s Marvelous Influence
In the realm of woodworking, ‘adamantine’ signified Seth Thomas clocks’ pioneering use of celluloid to imitate the opulent appearance of marble or granite. The name ‘adamantine’ was in homage to an unbreakable substance from Greek mythology. This historical term resonates in modern pop culture with Marvel’s iconic ‘Wolverine,’ whose formidable claws are made of a fictional metal ‘Adamantium,’ inspired by the notion of indestructibility.
The Sound of Music: Celluloid in Instruments
Musical instruments continue to benefit from celluloid’s unique properties, enhancing acoustic performance and maintaining the aesthetic appeal. Guitar components such as picks and pickguards frequently utilize celluloid. Additionally, the accordion, an instrument closely associated with European folk music, gains its iconic appearance through this versatile material.
Bakelite: Celluloid’s Fire-Resistant Cousin
Despite its myriad of uses, celluloid possessed one significant drawback: flammability. Responding to this challenge, Belgian chemist Leo Baekeland, in 1909, produced Bakelite—a thermoplastic heralded for its heat-resistant qualities, which gained immense popularity, particularly in the realm of kitchenware.
The Bakelite Revolution in Communication
World War I catalyzed the application of thermoplastics like Bakelite, which became instrumental in mass-producing parts for aircraft. Moreover, Bakelite drastically reduced the costs of another essential technology—the rotary table phone. Previously exclusive to military or governmental use, telephones became a staple in civilian households, adorned in their characteristic pale-yellow or green hues.
Unique Emblem: Bakelite on a National Flag
Among its myriad of applications, Bakelite’s most unusual distinction is its presence on the national flag of Mozambique, making the flag uniquely unique worldwide. The durable plastic forms the handle and magazine of the AK-47 rifle depicted on the flag—symbolizing defense and vigilance.
The Eternal Roll of Dice
Board game enthusiasts continue to appreciate pieces made from Bakelite or ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) especially for the crafting of dice, an object with a historical lineage tracing back to bone. The weight and sound of Bakelite dice remain unmatched, adding a tactile satisfaction to gameplay.
The Building Blocks of Imagination: LEGO
ABS’s durability, chemical resistance, and high deflection temperature make it the foundation of the world’s leading toy company, LEGO. The iconic brand uses the terpolymer to manufacture over 100 billion pieces annually, allowing for the creation of limitless imaginative constructs.
As we reflect on these innovations, we are reminded how materials such as celluloid and Bakelite have shaped our daily lives, from leisure activities to the very way we communicate. These materials are not mere footnotes in history; they continue to have a profound impact on the evolution of technology and cultural heritage.
